The DHSC said people with rare diseases and inborn errors of metabolism that significantly increase infection are also classed as high-risk.

Those with serious health conditions face the highest risk of needing hospital treatment for Covid-19 according to the DHSC.

Shielding Measures

Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick also announced new shielding measures for those people who are most at risk.

The NHS will contact by those at higher risk – asking people to not leave home for 12 weeks.

Others in the household won’t be required to follow same measures – just social distancing measures. Carers can still visit.

For those without a network, government will be setting up a network of local ‘hub’s – medicine and food to be distributed by local authorities. Parcels will be left on doorstep – emergency services and armed forces will support this effort.